How do I create an offset

[George's Woodshop]

I'm still using the trial version of Designer and it's going OK.

 

For me one purpose for Designer is to create patterns for use in woodworking.  In some cases the pattern needs to be smaller or larger than the final product by a set amount; I call this the offset.  (This situation occurs when using a router with a bushing guide.)

 

if I make pattern of a flower, for example there could be several petals around a circle.  The edge is the final set shape.  I'd like to be able to make patterns with different offsets from that final size, e.g. less by 5 mm.  I need a unit like mm or inches.

 

I could not find anything like an offset path tool.  Some forum topics suggest using a stroke.  I'm not sure how to make an inside stroke by a certain amount of millimeters.

 

I'm also having some problems with printing large patterns across multiple pages; there are gaps even when using borderless settings for page size.

 

Any thoughts on how to do this or just knowing that it can't really be done would be welcome.  Thanks

[crabtrem]

I am definitely no expert.  But might be able to offer up some options you might consider.

I am thinking offset to scaling, so the easiest way to scale (for me) is using the transform tab at the bottom right on the studio tools.

 

So you have your pattern, select it and make a duplicate.  

 

You may only need to select an outer edge, if feasible. 

(If your outer edge is a single closed object, you could always set your stroke to the offset width, make sure your stroke is on the outside of the shape and use that.)

 

For a more complex piece, making a duplicate might be the best method.  Make a copy of your pattern (CMD-J).  

 

Go to the transform tab, make sure your anchor is in the center.

 

Now say you want to extend your pattern by 5mm.  Make sure your Width and Height boxes aspect ratio is locked (lines on chain).

Pick either entry box and go +=5mm.  

This will extend your pattern by 5mm, even if your document is set to another measurement.

 

It may be easier to set your document to the measurement you want to use.  But I have tried the translation with a document in inches and added 5mm to a copy.

 

As far as printing, my only thought is to set up a document with a bleed area where the total size equates to your paper size being printed, or less.  Make sure your template overlaps into the bleed (obvious), and that should give you an overlap if you adjust them over several pages/artboards.  Just a thought. I haven't tested it, so don't know how well it would work.

 

I don't know if anything here is very good, and there are most likely better ways to do them.  These are my thoughts and suggestions.  And hopefully you will find something you can use. Sorry my iMac is currently down, so I only have this text entry to try and convey my thoughts.

Everything here is well explained in the Affinity Designer Help File.  Search functions don't always return what you are looking for, but there is a lot of details in the help files, which too many people seem to either not look at, or do not browse.

 

Good luck.